Packers Linked to Trade for Chargers Back Kimani Vidal
A national analyst suggests Green Bay pursue Los Angeles running back Kimani Vidal to bolster depth.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Football
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The Green Bay Packers are facing calls to trade for Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal to address issues in their run game. The move is suggested as the team seeks reliable support for starter Josh Jacobs.
Why it matters
The Packers currently face inconsistency in the ground attack and ongoing uncertainty regarding the availability of Josh Jacobs. An NFL personal-conduct review may result in further discipline for Jacobs, necessitating a more stable backup rotation.
Kimani Vidal has recorded 109 rushing yards and one touchdown on 21 carries for an average of 5.2 yards per attempt in 2026. Conversely, Packers back MarShawn Lloyd has compiled 142 yards and two touchdowns on 54 carries for a 2.6-yard average.
The players
Kimani Vidal
He is a running back for the Los Angeles Chargers who was drafted in the sixth round in 2024.
Josh Jacobs
He is the starting running back for the Green Bay Packers who recently spent time on the Commissioner's Exempt List.
Green Bay Packers
This is a professional football team based in Wisconsin that competes in the NFC North division.
Los Angeles Chargers
This is a professional football team that competes in the AFC West division.
MarShawn Lloyd
He is a running back currently playing for the Green Bay Packers.
The details
Vidal, who was selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL draft, played behind Omarion Hampton and Keaton Mitchell this season. The Packers recently struggled against the Detroit Lions, managing only 60 total rushing yards on 19 attempts, including 36 yards from Josh Jacobs.
Timeline
2024: Kimani Vidal was selected by the Chargers in the NFL draft.
2025: Kimani Vidal appeared in 13 games and started 10.
October 29, 2026: The proposal for a trade involving Kimani Vidal was published.
2027: Kimani Vidal is scheduled to become a restricted free agent.
Season Trajectory
This potential trade move aligns with the broader NFL trend of managing roster depth amidst the ongoing NFL Commissioner's Exempt List review process. Acquiring depth now would provide the Packers insurance against further disciplinary action and shore up their NFC playoff standing.
Green Bay's inability to move the ball effectively on the ground forces the team into predictable passing situations. A trade for a back with Vidal's 5.2-yard efficiency could significantly alter the team's rushing rotation and production math.
The takeaway
Reliable depth at the running back position remains a critical factor for teams navigating the late-season playoff push. Players entering the restricted free agent market often become prime targets for teams looking to address immediate positional shortages.
Further reading
For more updates on roster moves and team analysis, visit Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
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